Criminals targeting ATM users

The South African Police has issued a warning for people to be alert and careful when withdrawing cash at ATM’s.

According to police spokesperson W.O. Gerda Swart, various incidents were reported where cards were stolen from the rightful owners and cash withdrawals were made without the owners knowing about it.

The following safety hints are provided as a guideline:

Avoid isolated ATM’s and using the ATM late at night or very early in the morning.

If you feel unsafe or you are suspicious of individuals loitering in the vicinity, trust your instincts, use another ATM.

Never write down your Personal Identification Number (PIN) or carry it anywhere near your ATM card.

Never accept help from strangers.

Take your time while doing your transaction. Don’t be distracted, intimidated, or hurried into your transaction.

Never let a stranger touch your card.

It is advisable not to insert your card until instructed to do so by the display screen.

Never force your card into the card slot.

Be sure no-one is looking over your shoulder.

Cancel your card if the machine retains it by calling the card stop number. Don’t move away from the machine before you have called the card stop number and make a note of the reference provided by the bank.

Ensure that your own card is returned af-ter the transaction.

Don’t count your cash in front of the ATM or while walking or sitting in an unlocked vehicle.

Be watchful of people following you after you have withdrawn your money (on foot or vehicle).

If you suspect that you are being followed, go to the nearest police station.